Student Special Projects Exhibitions

Dec. 5th – Dec. 13th

Opening Reception, Thursday Dec. 5th 5-7pm

The UMKC Gallery of Art is proud to present A Reality and Ready to Transmit, an exhibition of new work by our talented artists in the Media, Art, and Design Department for the upcoming Student Special Projects Exhibition. This showcase features the creative achievements of UMKC Studio Art students under the guidance of Barry Anderson and Elijah Gowin. This exhibition highlights a diverse range of artistic practices from digital renderings to handmade books. Each artwork is a unique expression, reflecting the individuality, creativity, and personal perspectives of each artist as they interpret the world around them and explore their personal voice.  

A Reality:

This exhibition explores the multifaceted concept of “the real.” Some artists draw inspiration from the natural world and its inhabitants, while others look inward using deep emotions to reflect internal truths. Still others venture into alternate realms, imagining entirely new worlds. The exhibition brings together diverse artistic perspectives, with works in painting, sculpture, assemblage, video, and augmented reality that examines, questions, and challenges our understanding of existence. Each piece offers a unique interpretation, reflecting each artist’s distinct worldview and their ongoing search for meaning in an ever-changing world.  

Ready to Transmit:

As we near the end of 2024, feelings of flux and instability permeate daily life, making the search for personal grounding and the expression of one’s voice a crucial act of choice and control, with the hope for connection. This collection of hand-made books created by students features individual explorations of change, personal identity, and the search for one’s voice. These handmade creations stand alone as intimate statements surrounding choice, control, and hope. The works on display showcase a variety of materials, binding techniques, and printing methods ranging from handmade to machine-printed technologies. Many of the books invite the viewer into tactile, visual experiences, offering opportunities for interaction and engagement.